One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

In the whirlwind of weeknights, finding a dinner that’s both satisfying and simple can feel like searching for a culinary unicorn. That’s where this One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta recipe swoops in to save the day. Honestly, from the moment the tantalizing aroma of garlic and butter starts to fill your kitchen, you know you’re onto something special. My family, usually a tough crowd to please after a long day, absolutely devoured this dish. The creamy, garlicky sauce clinging to perfectly cooked pasta and tender chicken was an instant hit. Clean-up was a breeze thanks to the one-pot wonder, leaving me with more time to relax and enjoy the evening. If you’re looking for a flavorful, fuss-free meal that will become a family favorite, look no further – this recipe is about to become your new go-to!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Delicious One-Pot Pasta

This recipe utilizes simple, readily available ingredients to create a dish bursting with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Chicken Breast: 1.5 lbs, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Provides the protein base and heartiness of the dish.
• Pasta: 1 lb (16 oz) of your favorite pasta shape, such as penne, rotini, farfalle, or fusilli. Forms the carbohydrate foundation and soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups, low sodium chicken broth. The cooking liquid for the pasta and the base of the flavorful sauce.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup, heavy cream or double cream. Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, creating a luxurious texture.
• Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), unsalted butter. Essential for the classic garlic butter flavor and adds richness and depth.
• Garlic: 6-8 cloves, minced. The star flavor, adding pungent aroma and savory depth.
• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped. Provides aromatic base and subtle sweetness to the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons, dried Italian seasoning blend. Aromatic herbs that enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon (or more to taste), red pepper flakes. Adds a gentle warmth and a subtle kick to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving. Adds salty, savory, and umami notes, thickening the sauce and enhancing flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped fresh parsley, for garnish. Adds freshness, color, and a bright herbaceous note to finish the dish.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, extra virgin olive oil. Used for sautéing the chicken and vegetables, providing healthy fats and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Making this delicious One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is surprisingly simple and quick. Follow these easy steps for a guaranteed crowd-pleasing meal:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Begin by chopping the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves and finely chop the yellow onion. Measure out all other ingredients and have them ready to go. This ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped chicken and season generously with salt and black pepper. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it is browned on all sides and cooked through. This step is crucial for developing flavor and ensuring the chicken is safe to eat. Don’t worry about cooking it perfectly at this stage as it will continue to cook with the pasta. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the melted butter. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Sautéing the aromatics in butter is key to building the flavor base of the sauce.
4. Add Broth, Pasta, and Seasonings: Pour the chicken broth into the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – this adds extra flavor (this is called deglazing). Add the uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the broth. Stir well to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. The exact cooking time will depend on the type of pasta you use, so check the pasta package instructions and test for doneness.
5. Stir in Cream and Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. The heat from the pasta and sauce will melt the cheese and thicken the sauce beautifully.
6. Return Chicken and Garnish: Add the cooked chicken back into the pot and stir to combine it with the pasta and sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. The fresh parsley adds a vibrant finish and a pop of flavor.
7. Serve Immediately: Serve your delicious One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta hot. It’s best enjoyed immediately while the sauce is creamy and the pasta is perfectly cooked. Offer extra Parmesan cheese at the table for those who want to add more cheesy goodness.

Nutrition Facts for One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta (Per Serving)

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 650-750 calories per serving (depending on pasta type and serving size)
• Protein: Approximately 40-45 grams

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Preparation Time: Quick and Convenient

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (chopping vegetables, chicken, measuring ingredients)
• Cook Time: 25 minutes (sautéing, simmering, finishing)
• Total Time: 40 minutes

This One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights because it comes together in under 45 minutes from start to finish. The minimal prep work and one-pot cooking method make it incredibly convenient and efficient, allowing you to have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time.

How to Serve Your One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

This versatile pasta dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal with these serving suggestions:

• Side Dishes:
  • Garlic Bread: Classic pairing for pasta, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
  • Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add healthy nutrients and textural variety.
  • Steamed Green Beans: Simple and healthy side dish that complements the flavors of the pasta.
• Garnishes:
  • Extra Parmesan Cheese: Always a welcome addition for cheese lovers.
  • Fresh Basil: Adds a bright, aromatic, and slightly sweet note.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little extra heat.
  • Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness.
• Make it a Complete Meal:
  • Protein Boost: Add grilled shrimp, Italian sausage, or meatballs for extra protein.
  • Vegetable Variety: Stir in spinach, peas, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
• Serving Occasions:
  • Weeknight Dinner: Perfect for a quick and easy family meal after a busy day.
  • Casual Gatherings: Great for potlucks, casual dinners with friends, or game nights.
  • Comfort Food Cravings: Satisfying and comforting meal for cozy nights in.
  • Meal Prep: Can be prepared ahead of time and reheated for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Additional Tips for Perfect One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Here are 8 helpful tips to ensure your One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a resounding success every time:

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep a close eye on the pasta while it simmers. Overcooked pasta will become mushy. Aim for al dente pasta, which will continue to cook slightly as you stir in the cream and cheese. Start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark and adjust cooking time as needed based on your pasta type.
2. Use Quality Chicken Broth: The chicken broth is the base of your sauce, so using a good quality broth will significantly impact the flavor of your dish. Low sodium broth is recommended to control the saltiness of the final dish, allowing you to season to taste.
3. Fresh Garlic is Best: While garlic powder can be used in a pinch, fresh garlic provides a much more robust and aromatic flavor. Mincing it finely ensures it infuses the butter and sauce beautifully. Don’t be shy with the garlic – it’s a key component of the garlic butter flavor!
4. Adjust Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. If you like more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce along with the red pepper flakes. You can also serve extra red pepper flakes on the side for those who want to customize their spice level.
5. Customize Your Cheese: While Parmesan is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses. Try adding a blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier flavor. A touch of mozzarella or provolone can add extra meltiness. Consider adding a sprinkle of Gruyere for a nutty and complex flavor.
6. Add Vegetables for Nutrients: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables. Frozen peas, spinach, or chopped bell peppers can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking. Sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers can also be added for more robust flavors.
7. Don’t Skimp on the Butter: Butter is essential for the rich, garlic butter flavor that makes this dish so irresistible. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If you are concerned about the amount of butter, you can slightly reduce it, but it’s a key ingredient for the signature flavor.
8. Reheat Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce, and reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid overheating, as the sauce can separate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A1: Absolutely! This recipe works well with various pasta shapes like penne, rotini, farfalle, fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells. Just be mindful that different pasta shapes may have slightly different cooking times. Always check the pasta package instructions and test for doneness to ensure it’s cooked al dente.

Q2: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

A2: Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be dairy-free. Substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream. Use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The taste will be slightly different, but still delicious!

Q3: Can I use frozen chicken?

A3: It’s best to use thawed chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If you must use frozen chicken, you’ll need to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure it cooks through properly and safely. Cooking frozen chicken directly can result in uneven cooking and potentially dry chicken.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A4: While this pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time. You can chop the vegetables, cut the chicken, and measure out the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process. However, it’s recommended to cook the pasta just before serving for the best texture. If you need to make it slightly ahead, cook the pasta slightly under al dente as it will continue to cook as it sits. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.

Q5: Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

A5: Yes, absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, broccoli florets, bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. Stir in delicate vegetables like spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking. Heartier vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers can be sautéed with the onions and garlic at the beginning.

Q6: What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

A6: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few minutes longer to allow it to reduce and thicken. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) to thicken it quickly, but be sure to simmer for a minute or two after adding to cook out the cornstarch taste.

Q7: Can I use pre-minced garlic?

A7: While fresh minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor, you can use pre-minced garlic in a pinch for convenience. Use about 1-2 teaspoons of pre-minced garlic for every clove of fresh garlic. Keep in mind that fresh garlic will always provide a more potent and vibrant flavor.

Q8: How long does leftover pasta last in the refrigerator?

A8: Leftover One-Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled down properly before refrigerating. Reheat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming. Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to restore moisture and creaminess.

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